With the new generation Mercedes-Benz Actros having taken centre stage at last autumn’s IAA show at Hannover, it’s now the turn of its construction sector sibling, the Arocs, to come under the spotlight. The first major update to the Arocs range since its launch in 2013 was displayed at last week’s massive Bauma construction show in Munich.
Arocs features many of the innovations revealed on the new Actros, including the MirrorCam system and the multimedia dual-screen dashboard, which can be used to integrate body control systems. The latest version of the PPC predictive cruise control is standard on all models except mixers, and Active Brake Assist 5 is an option on 2- and 3-axle models with front under-run protection, although it’s likely to be some time in 2020 before Sideguard Assist is available on UK RHD models. Another option of potentially greater value off-road is advanced tyre-pressure monitoring with temperature compensated actual and target temperatures displayed graphically.
The Arocs range of rigids and tractors now includes more variants than we have space to list, but range from 4x2 18-tonne rigids up to 4-axle models with 8x2, 8x4, 8x6 and 8x8 drivelines, as well as tridems and rear-steer versions.
Cabs are equally diverse, all retaining the trademark “toothed” grille. They cover most needs from the compact S-cab ClassicSpace to the big L-cab BigSpace. Both 2,300mm and 2,500mm widths are available in a variety of heights. Inside, two trim options are available, StyleLine and TrendLine, with added chrome, wood and leather.
The four engine capacities – 7.7, 10.7, 12.8 and 15.6 litres – provide 18 boxes available to tick for power output, from 238hp/1,000Nm to 625hp/3,000Nm. The standard transmission is Daimler’s automated PowerShift 3 with 8, 12 or 16 ratios, with an Offroad drive programme option. Manual options are also available.
For tougher going, many models have the option of Hydraulic Auxiliary Drive front axles, although not yet with RHD, while you can have permanent all-wheel-drive with a dual-range transfer box, or the turbo retarder clutch from the heavy haulage range.
